Summer Meltdown drew large crowds to downtown Lakewood

LAKEWOOD, Ohio – By all accounts, the fifth annual Summer Meltdown on July 12 was a sizzling success.

Steamy, summer weather made the sprinkler area on Detroit Avenue west of Belle Avenue, a popular spot. Youngsters darted in and out of numerous sprinklers set up along a section of the street that was closed to traffic.

The sprinkler zone also was enjoyed by those who participated in the 1-mile fun run and 5K race. It was located just beyond the finish line for both races.

Matt Fish, owner of Melt Bar & Grilled, title sponsor for the Meltdown, was beaming about the event as he mingled with the crowd at the beer garden. Fish was one of about 500 runners who participated in the 5K race.

"We're super pro-Lakewood," he said. "This event brings more people to the area and it's good for everyone."

Ken Brand of LakewoodAlive, which organizes the event, said about 150 youngsters were in the 1-mile event.

"That was about double the number of kids from last year," Brand said.

Lakewood Recreation Department sponsored an expanded Healthy Lifestyle Festival from Warren Road to Marlowe Avenue west along Detroit 4-6 p.m., before the Meltdown races began. There were a variety of free, interactive activities that encouraged families to exercise, eat well and take advantage of the warm weather.

There were fencing, yoga, football, wrestling, ballet and meditation demonstration, as well as interactive games and more.

The beer garden and stage were east of Warren to Marlowe Avenue. Live music and food trucks kept partiers entertained and fed until 10 p.m.

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